CONSENT was honored to witness the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kingdom of Buganda and Stanbic Bank. This strategic partnership aims to empower farmers by improving access to quality agricultural inputs, advisory services, financial solutions, and mechanization support.
A key component of the initiative is the establishment of one-stop centers in each masaza (county), where farmers will conveniently access a wide range of services, including financial literacy training and awareness programs.
The Chairman of the Buganda Cultural Development Foundation (BUCADEF), Mr. Ssekamatte Ben, emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to eliminating poverty, combating diseases, and enhancing access to education.
“This partnership is vital in our efforts to eradicate poverty. Many farmers are forced to rely on low-cost, poor-quality agricultural inputs, which result in low yields,” Mr. Ssekamatte noted. “I applaud Stanbic Bank for stepping forward to support us in addressing this challenge.”
He further stressed the Kingdom's broader vision: “We want to see the Kabaka’s subjects free from poverty and disease, with access to quality education. When farmers use counterfeit inputs, the resulting produce is not only of low quality but may also pose health risks.”
Mr. Ssekamatte highlighted that the initiative allows farmers to pay for inputs after harvesting, making the model more sustainable and in line with the Kabaka’s goal of improving livelihoods.
Access to quality agricultural inputs remains a major hurdle for many farmers. “Often, they have to walk long distances to acquire them,” he added. Organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have supported the Kingdom by promoting the use of proper pesticides and strengthening agricultural research and extension services.
Stanbic Bank’s Executive Director, Mr. Muganwa Paul, underscored the importance of agriculture in driving national development. “How do we ensure meaningful impact and national growth? By focusing on agriculture. Through this partnership, we will empower farmers by offering loans at lower interest rates, without requiring collateral. We hope to replicate this model across the country to ensure widespread impact,” he said.
Working closely with the Kingdom of Buganda, organizations such as CONSENT, REXBA, and BUCADEF are set to bring transformative change to the eight Kabaka markets. By addressing food safety concerns, raising awareness, and investing in sustainable solutions, they aim to create a safer, healthier, and more consumer-friendly market environment.
The Kingdom of Buganda is pleased to have a trusted partner in CONSENT and looks forward to further collaboration on food safety and handling. This partnership aligns with the broader Ssemaduuka (One Stop Center) agenda, aimed at improving service delivery and livelihoods throughout the region.
